Iranian researchers succeeded in the synthesis of nanoparticles that can be used in purification of industrial wastewater containing organic compounds.

The nanoparticles have antibacterial, antifungal, anti-inflammation and pain killer properties, and they can be used in the treatment of gastrointestinal disorders.

Production of a catalyst with simple synthesis pattern and high catalytic activity for the purification of industrial wastewater containing organic pollutants is among the most important objectives of the research. Based on the positive results, magnesium oxide catalyst produced at nanometric scale can be used in the purification of industrial wastewater due to its simple production pattern.

One of the approaches to purify industrial wastewater is the application of advanced oxidization process based on the production of hydroxyl radical in the media, which is one of the most powerful oxidants. The use of ultrasound waves for the production of hydroxyl ion has recently attracted many researchers. However, the application of this process solely requires high power of waves and very long time. Therefore, some catalysts known as sonocatalysts are used at the same time with ultrasonic waves. These materials are insoluble, and when they are imposed to ultrasonic waves, they accelerate the formation of hydroxyl radical. Titanium oxide, zinc oxide and magnesium oxide possess this characteristic.

Results of experiments confirm the production of nanocatalyst with desirable reaction level. In addition, structural investigations show high purity of the produced nanoparticles. Research results showed that the produced sonocatalyst has a great ability in the conversion of organic pollutants to inorganic nontoxic materials such as water and carbon dioxide.

Results of the research have been published in Ultrasonic Sonochemistry, vol. 30, 2016, pp. 123-131.